Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Semester Ending

Good Afternoon!

I hope that you all had a chance to enjoy each other's company at the End of the Semester Celebration today.  Thank you to Reginia Hughes, BriAnne Nichols, Hanan Merheb, and Dr. Dubravka Juraga for coordinating this wonderful celebration!

As we begin to close out the semester and our students slowly complete the remainder of their final exams I wanted to remind you of a few things-

1.  The college will be closed from Friday 12/23 through Monday 1/2.  All areas will reopen on Tuesday 1/3.  Access to buildings during this time and will require Dean approval through the appropriate form prior to Monday 12/19.

2.  In preparation for the campus closing please unplug all electrical devices within your workspace and secure all belongings.  It is recommended that all staff take home personal belongings during this time.

3.  The Division of Academic Success will begin intercession hours on Friday 12/16.

Thank you and have a great week!

Debbie

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Good Morning!

Just a couple of quick announcements for this week!

Triton in the National Spotlight
Tomorrow, December 7th, representatives from the White House, U.S. Department of Education, and several Chicagoland interfaith groups will be on campus for a nationally broadcast discussion on President Obama's Interfaith and Community Service Campus Challenge.  The event is being held in the "J" (Fine Arts) building from 10:30am-12:00pm.  Please be prepared to help direct guests to the "J" building - they should be walked over if possible.  For more information please click on this link - National Interfaith Community Discussion

Be Informed!
Please make sure and review the Triton College Master Plan Report now available.  The link below will take you to the document.  Triton College Master Plan Status Report

Join the Party!
Triton College is hosting the annual Snowflake Holiday Celebration on Friday, December 16th.  For more information please visit the following link-  Snowflake Holiday Celebration

Student Success
Triton College is committed to students success.  We all work extremely hard to support our students in their educational endeavors.  But, how do we know that our efforts are working?  Check out the new Student Success Report that has been released by the Division of Research and Institutional Effectiveness. 

The Triton College Library Annual Book Sale will end with Bag Day on Monday, December 5, 2011. The Library sponsors the Book Sale to promote the library campus and community, to encourage students to read for fun and research and to raise funds for the Library's Foundation account. Each year the Library uses proceeds to offer scholarships for students. Missed it this year? No problem it will be back next year!

Food Drive
The Library is working with the AAWCC to collect non-perishable food for some of our neighbors who may be struggling.  A collection box is located in the Library where individuals are welcome to the donate until Wednesday, December 21, 2011. The food will be given to a local food pantry. Thanks for helping!!

Student Support Services Upcoming Events
December 7th 3:00-4:00
Room A102
Finals Review Session for TRiO Participants

December 12th, 13th, 14th
9:00-3:00 P.M.
Room Senate Chambers, B Building
Finals Review Session for all students- Event sponsored by Program Board, TRiO SSS, and the ASC

Friday, December 2, 2011

IMPORTANT- PLEASE READ!!!

All Triton College staff received an e-mail communication from VP Sean Sullivan regarding the completion of a REQUIRED conflict of interest form.  You must completion this form and give it to your direct supervisor no later than Monday, December 19, 2011.  If you need a copy of the form or have any questions please see your supervisor ASAP.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and cooperation in completing these forms.

Debbie

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Are you in the loop?

Good Morning!

On my way into work I heard a news report regarding the weather forecast for this winter.  I was hoping to hear that the Chicagoland area is expecting a mild winter with warm, sunny days...but that did not happen.  Instead, the new reporter indicated that all meteorology reports indicate a very snowy winter this year - over 55inches of snowfall anticipated.  The basis of the report was to inform the public that area officials have been meeting with internal and external agencies to ensure that everyone is prepared for inclement weather when it hits.

While none of us can be certain of Illinois weather, we can all do are part to make sure we are prepared for whatever comes our way.  Here are some tips to ensure that you are in the "loop" in case of emergency weather delays or closings.

1.  Participate in the College emergency notification system to receive e-mail, text and voice messages alerting you to campus closures, delays and emergency situations.  


2.  Check with the "Know Before You Go" website.


3.  Update your contact information with you supervisor.  Each area has an emergency phone tree that is utilized during emergency closing or delays.  Double check your information with your supervisor to ensure that you will be contacted in case of closure.

**No system is 100% successful - by using ALL THREE methods of notification you can save yourself time and frustration in the event of an emergency closing or delay.**

Finally, I am pleased to share that as of this post there are only 

111 days,  7 Hours,  9 mins, and 33 secs until spring!

Have a great day and enjoy the sunshine!

Debbie



Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Holiday Decorations - Must Read

Good Afternoon!

A memo has been circulated by Human Resources regarding holiday decorations at the College.  Please review the following message from Joe Kilinger-
**************************
As a public institution it is important the a professional environment be maintained at all times.  This is a friendly reminder that individual departments may not apply holiday decorations to any exterior/interior walls, windows, common spaces, or doors.  In addition, decoration may not be hung from the ceiling.

Employees may decorate their desks or their personal office or cubicle spaces.  Those decorations may not interrupt or interfere with the operations of the office.
**************************

Thank you for your cooperation with this matter.

Debbie

Final Stretch

Good Morning!

Now that the holiday weekend is over we are heading into the final stretch of the semester.  Please remember to do whatever you can to easy the stress for the students during this time.  Below are some announcements about upcoming events/activities on campus-

College Hour Today!!!
Please plan on attending the College Hour today regarding the new ERP system.  Implementing this system requires support from all members of the campus community -please come and learn about how you can support the transition!  Click on this link for more details.  college hour: the new erp


Flower Shop Sale
two-for-one sale at the flower shop


Winter Staff Part!
The College community invites all staff to attend the annual winter holiday party!  Please click on the link below for more information.
You’re invited to Triton’s holiday party at Elmcrest banquets


Have a great week!

Debbie

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Short Work Week

Good Morning!

Just a quick note to let all of you know how thankful I am to have such a great team in our Division.  Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to student success is evident on a daily basis.  I appreciate you and all that you do for the Triton College community.

Debbie 

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Celebrate Veterans!

Good Afternoon!

Tomorrow is Veteran's Day!  In celebration of those that protect our country several businesses are offering specials for veterans and active service members.  Please share with someone you know!

2011 Free Veterans Day Meals

Applebee’s – free meal, Friday, Nov. 11: Last year, Applebee’s served 1,024,000 million free meals to military veterans and active servicemembers. Applebee’s is again offering a free meal to military veterans and active-duty service members on Veteran’s Day, Friday, Nov. 11, 2011. There will be 7 entrées to choose from. Military ID or proof of service required. Find locations at http://applebees.com/.

Chili’s – free meal, Friday, Nov. 11. Chili’s is offering all military veterans past and present their choice of one of 6 meals. This offer is available during business hours on November 11, 2011 at participating Chili’s in the U.S. only. Dine-in from limited menu only; beverages and gratuity not included. Veterans and active duty military simply show proof of military service. Visit their website to find locations.

Golden Corral – Free meal, Monday Nov. 14: The 10th annual Golden Corral Military Appreciation dinner will be held on Monday, November 14, 2011 from 5 pm to 9 pm in all Golden Corral Restaurants nationwide. The free “thank you” dinner is available to any person who has ever served in the United States Military. If you are a veteran, retired, currently serving, in the National Guard or Reserves, you are invited to participate in Golden Corral’s Military Appreciation Monday dinner. For more information visit http://www.goldencorral.com/military/.
Special thanks to Golden Corral: To date, Golden Corral restaurants have provided over 2.5 million free meals and contributed over $4.3 million to the Disabled American Veterans organization.

Hooters – Free Meal, Friday, Nov. 11. Hooter’s is serving up a free meal to military veterans all day on Veterans Day. Offer good for all veterans and active duty military personnel. Choose one of the new specialty items on the Hooter’s menu. Offer valid at participating Hooters only; open to all active duty and military
veterans with valid military ID or proof of military service. Drink purchase required. For more information, visit, www.HootersVeteransDay.com.

Krispy Kreme – Free doughnut. Available only at participating Krispy Kreme stores. Offer available to all active-duty, retirees & veterans on Friday November 11th. Be sure to call ahead to verify your local Krispy Kreme is participating.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants – free lunch or dinner, Sunday Nov 13, 2011: McCormick & Schmick’s is celebrating their 13th annual Veteran’s Appreciation Event on Sunday, November 13th. Veterans will be able to choose a complimentary lunch or dinner entrée. Veterans must provide proof of military service. Be sure to contact your local McCormick & Schmick’s as this is valid at participating restaurants only. Also, Space is limited and reservations are highly recommended. For more information visit: M&S Veterans Appreciation Event.

Outback Steakhouse – A week of Free Bloomin’ Onions and Cokes Monday Nov. 7 – Friday Nov. 11. Outback Steakhouse is honoring America’s military veterans by offering active duty military and veterans a free Bloomin’ Onion and a Coca-Cola product during the week leading up to Veteran’s Day. This offer is available to Military Personnel who have one of the following forms of identifications: U.S Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), DD form 214 Veterans Organization Card (i.e., American Legion and VFW), Photograph in Uniform, Wearing Uniform. For more information, visit, http://outback.com/companyinfo/veteransday.aspx.
The Outback understands commitment. For the past two years, The Outback, with the help of their patrons, has donated $2 Million to Operation Homefront, a non-profit organization providing everyday and emergency support for active troops, wounded warriors and their families.

Subway – Free Six Inch Sub. Select Subway locations offer a FREE six inch sub to military veterans on Veteran’s Day. However, Subway restaurants are franchises, so this offer may not be available everywhere. Please call ahead.

Texas Roadhouse – free meal, Friday, Nov. 11. Offer varies by location; our local Texas Roadhouse is offering a free meal from opening until 4pm. Other locations may vary in offer, hours, or availability. Call ahead to your local restaurant for more information.

T.G.I. Friday’s – Buy one get one free Nov 11-14. At participating locations for anyone with an old or current military ID. November 11-14.

Uno Chicago Grill, Friday, Nov. 11. Uno’s is offering a free entree or individual pizza with a purchase of an entree or pizza of equal or greater value. Offer good for all military for veterans and active duty military. ID or proof of service required: Show up in uniform (if your service permits), provide military ID, show a picture of yourself in uniform, or have other ID showing proof of service. More info here.

Home Depot and Lowes Coupon Updates
Update: Home Depot and Lowes 10% Military Discount Available Everyday.

Home Depot: The Home Depot(R) is offering all active duty personnel, reservists, retired military, veterans and their families a 10 percent discount off their purchases in honor of Veteran’s Day. The offer is valid on purchases of up to $2,000 for a maximum of $200 and is available at The Home Depot stores, The Home Depot Design Center locations, Yardbirds and EXPO Design Center(R) locations. The 10% discount is available everyday for active duty and retirees, but not all veterans. Home Depot makes this offer available to all veterans on most military holidays. You can also find Home Depot discounts online.

Lowes: Lowe’s Companies, Inc. will offer all active, reserve, honorably discharged, retired military personnel and their immediate family members a 10
percent discount on in-store U.S. purchases made during the Veterans Day holiday. The discount is available Nov. 7 – Nov. 11. The discount is available on in-stock and special order purchases up to $5,000. To qualify, individuals must present a valid military ID or other proof of service. Excluded from the discount are sales via Lowes.com, previous sales, and purchases of services or gift cards. Like Home Depot, Lowes offers this discount daily to active duty military members, but not to veterans. However, they extend the offer to military veterans on military holidays. You can also find exclusive discounts at Lowe’s.com.

Free Park Admissions for Veterans Day
Anheuser-Busch Parks. Anheuser-Busch Parks offers Active Duty Service Members free admission for them and up to 3 dependents to any of their parks once a year. Throughout 2011, members of the military and as many as three direct dependents may enter SeaWorld, Busch Gardens or Sesame Place parks with a single-day complimentary admission. The Here’s to the Heroes program is only available to Any active duty, activated or drilling reservist, or National Guardsman. Eligible parks include: Adventure Island, Busch Gardens (Tampa Bay or Williamsburg), SeaWorld (Orlando, San Diego, or San Antonio), Sesame Place, and Water Country USA. Not valid at Discovery Cove and Aquatica. Christmas Town at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Va. is not included as part of this program. For more information and to register, visit: Free admission summary, and ticket application.

Colonial Williamsburg Free Admission. Colonial Williamsburg offers free weekend-long admission tickets to active-duty military, reservists, retirees, veterans, and their immediate dependents from Friday, Nov. 11
through Sunday, Nov. 13th. The complimentary ticket incudes admission to Colonial Williamsburg exhibition sites, art museums, and most daytime programs, as well as free parking and use of the shuttle bus system. Tickets are only available at on-site ticket sales locations. Tickets are also available to families of deployed servicemembers. Tickets available on the following dates: Nov. 11-13.

Historic Jamestowne – Free Admission. The National Park Service commemorates Veterans Day with Fee Free days at Historic Jamestowne November 11-13. Free admission for everyone. See events calendar.

Knotts Berry Farm Military Tribute Days – Free Admission. Knott’s Berry Farm has an annual Military Tribute event in which they offer military members past and present by offering free park admission. This year the Military Tribute Days run from November 1 – 24 November (Thanksgiving Day). Veterans or current serving military personnel plus one guest get in FREE with proper ID presented at Knott’s turnstile (DD214, Veterans Administration Hospital ID or Active Military Service ID). Purchase up to six additional tickets for just $17 each. More info.

Fee Free Day at National Parks. To honor America’s service men and women, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced that areas managed by the National Park Service would not charge entrance fees for Veteran’s Day weekend – November 11-13, 2011. Over 100 national Parks will be participating in this event.

San Jacinto Monument and Museum (La Porte, TX). November 7-13: Free admission to the theatre, Observation Floor, and (on November 12-13) the special exhibit to all veterans and their families. More info.

Bed and Breakfast for Vets - In the third year of the program, B&Bs for Vets has organized over 485 (and counting) participating Bed and Breakfasts and Inns across the US and Canada which will be offering veterans a free night’s stay on November 10th, the night before Veterans Day. This offer is available to both active duty military members and veterans with ID, but space is limited. Each Inn and B&B has at least one
room available for this promotion and reservations must be made directly through the participating Inns and B&Bs. For more information visit B&Bs for Vets.

Free Hugo® Canes for Veterans - Sam’s Club® locations nationwide will distribute 36,000 Hugo® canes free of charge on November 9th, 10th, 11th, 2011 to U.S. military veterans in need of mobility assistance. Limited quantities available, while supplies last. Sam’s Club® Membership is not required, but proof of military service may be required. For more information, visit HugoSalutes.com.

Other Veteran’s Day Discounts
Free Car wash. Thousands of car washes around the country are offering vets a free car wash on Veterans Day. Find a list at Grace for Veterans, which helped veterans receive 101,537 FREE Washes on Veterans Day in 2010.

Amazon.com – Discount “Veterans Day Honor” MP3 album download. This downloadable album includes 12 songs as performed by the military bands and ensembles of the U.S. Armed Forces. Visit Amazon on Veteran’s Day to download the album.

Netflix – One Month Free Trial.

Sport Clips – FREE haircut to active-duty military & veterans. Offer only available at select locations. Please call to verify local participation.

Tim Hortons – all US locations are offering a free donut to all veterans (check out the Star Spangled donut!).

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

TEST - National Emergency Broadcast System

Please be aware FEMA, DHS, and FCC will conduct the first national test of the Nationwide Emergency Alert System (EAS) today. This nationwide three-minute test is the first of its kind designed to broadcast a nationwide message to the American public and will kick off at 1:00 p.m. The test will run concurrently on all radio and TV band stations and across all time zones. Additional information is available regarding this test at FEMAs website

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Great Team Work!!!

Just a quick note of thanks for the amazing team work displayed by all areas of the Division during the fire alarm today.  Fortunately this was a false alarm.  However, it did give us an opportunity to see our response during a perceived emergency.  Needless to say, I was very proud of our ability to evacuate our areas in such an efficient manner.  Thank you for your leadership and dedication to keeping our students, faculty and staff safe while in our facilities!

Debbie

Monday, November 7, 2011

Weekly Announcements

Good Morning!


I am pleased to see the expansion of "followers" on this blog - thank you!  Here are some announcements for this week.


Library
Some of you may have seen several people looking at the floor in the front of the Library over the past few weeks.  I am pleased to say that the main entrance of the Library will be getting new flooring and a much needed upgrade in the coming months.  Stay tuned for more updates on this project.


The Annual Library Book Sale is here!  The Sale begins November 28th and runs through December 5th - please help spread the word!


Academic Success Center
iPad2 units have arrived!!!  Students can check out iPad2 units for use in the ASC as an alternative tool for supporting learning needs.  For more information please contact Hanan Merheb, Director of the ASC at ext. 3573.


ETRC
The ETRC is revamping the support materials for distribution to students taking online courses.  The College recently upgraded to a new version of BlackBoard and the ETRC is finding new ways to support student success in these courses.  


Thank You!!!
Thank you to all of the staff within the Division that participated in the Completion Agenda kick-off event.  It was also great see so many people at the President's Reception.  Thank you!


Triton Trojans
Please support our student athletes by attending an upcoming event-


Men's Basketball - 

Tue. Nov. 15 McHenry River Grove, IL 7 p.m. 
Thu. Nov. 17 Morton River Grove, IL 7 p.m. 
Tue. Nov. 22 Olive-Harvey River Grove, IL 7 p.m. 



Women's Basketball-


Sat.Nov. 12Judson University (JV)River Grove, IL1 p.m.
Tue.Nov. 15McHenryRiver Grove, IL5 p.m.






Thursday, November 3, 2011

Trojan Pride!!!

Triton College Men’s Soccer Team Wins Fourth Straight Region IV Championship

The Triton College men’s soccer team’s dominance of Region IV continued Oct. 26 in Buffalo Grove. The Trojans won their fourth consecutive regional crown in their 2-0 win over Joliet Junior College.

The current Triton run of championships equals the school record for consecutive titles achieved previously from 1985-1988.

The Trojans, 15-1, are one win away from returning to the NJCAA Division III National Tournament in Herkimer, NY, and will travel to Coon Rapids, Minn., to face Anoka-Ramsey Community College for the District C Championship this Saturday at noon.

These two teams are no strangers to one another as Triton defeated Anoka-Ramsey 3-0 in last year’s district final.

“It’s a great accomplishment to win four region championships in a row,” said assistant coach Piotr Sliwa. “However our work is not done. We’ll have a challenging game in Minnesota and need to continue to play good team soccer if we want to achieve our ultimate goal and that’s to make it back to New York for nationals.”

Early on in the clinching win over Joliet, the two teams played at a high pace but had difficulty generating many scoring chances in the unseasonably chilly conditions. But the Trojans offense hit the jackpot with their only goals coming in a 90-second span midway through the first half.

Dawid Wisniewski (East Leyden) scored the first tally off an assist from Gewargis Samuel (Mather) in the 23rd minute. Seconds later Dimitrios Floros (Truman Middle College) struck from 25 yards from Samuel Samuel (Mather) to give Triton all the offense they needed.

Goalkeeper Jorge Perez (East Aurora) made the lead stand up by recording his fifth straight shutout. The Trojans have not allowed a goal since their only loss of the season to Milwaukee Tech on Oct. 5. Triton has outscored their opponents 15-0 during this stretch.

After the victory, head coach Tom Cholewa was awarded Region IV Coach of the Year and Dimitrios Floros was named Region IV Tournament Most Valuable Player.

For more information on Triton College Athletics, visit www.triton.edu/athletics or call Athletic Director Harry McGinnis at (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3784.

Germs Are In The Air!

Happy Thursday!

Fall is here, the cold weather is coming and so are the germs!  Many of us have been fighting cold/flu symptoms which is a great reminder of what lies ahead.  Please make sure that you are taking great care of yourselves, wash hands, cover mouths and stay healthy!  If you area needs more hand sanitizer please let me know - we can work to get you more.  

Thanks again for all of your hard work - I am inspired everyday by your dedication and commitment to our students.  

Debbie

Monday, October 24, 2011

Triton College Needs Your Support!

The College will be hosting several events this week including-

  • The Completion Agenda Kick-Off
    • Wednesday, October 26th 1:00pm-3:00pm in the Student Center.  Participation is STRONGLY encouraged!  We need to demonstrate our commitment to Student Success and Completion!
  • The Completion Agenda Webinar
    • Wednesday, October 26th 3:00pm-4:00pm in Parachutes (Student Center).  Come learn all about the Completion Agenda and how it can help support student success.
  • “I Am” Movie Event
    • The theme of the movie coincides with the theme of the book. The movie is an engaging documentary that poses two practical and provocative questions: what's wrong with our world, and what can we do to make it better? Run time is 77 minutes with discussion to follow.  Visit http://iamthedoc.com for preview information. Movie will be shown in the Robert Collins Theater.
      • Show times:
        • Thursday 11/3 @ 1:00pm - 3:00pm;
        • Sunday 11/13 @ 2:00pm - 4:00pm;
        • Monday 11/28 @ 2:00pm – 4:00pm
  • President's Reception
Have a GREAT week!

Debbie

New Week - New Followers!

Good Afternoon!

As promised, I have taken the names of the blog's 7 "followers" and selected one person to receive a small token of appreciation for supporting the Dean's Blog.  The winner is...

BriAnne Nichols

BriAnne is the Director for SSS and is one of seven staff that has supported the new blog by becoming a follower.  I appreciate BriAnne's efforts and those of the other six followers (Cynthia Romanowski, Blanca Gutierrez, Reginia Hughes, Claire Basile, Maggie Duran, Daisy Dujua).  I am somewhat disappointed in the level of response that the blog is getting so I have decided to "up the ante".  The department within the Division of Academic Success that can get the highest percentage of staff to "follow" the blog will get a special afternoon treat.  The deadline to "follow" is November 30th at noon.

Debbie

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Holiday / Winter Break / Intercession Hours

Area Supervisors should be working with staff to post signage regarding the following special, holiday,
and intercession hours for the Division of Academic Success. 

Thanksgiving Break
             Wednesday 11/23 - 8am - 5pm
              Thursday 11/24 - Closed
              Friday 11/25 - Closed 
              Saturday 11/26 - Closed
              Sunday 11/27 - Closed
     *Monday 11/28 resume regular hours 

Finals Week 12/12-12/15 
              REGULAR HOURS

Winter Intercession 
              Begins Friday 12/16 through Thursday 1/19
                    Monday - Thursday 8am-5pm
                    Friday 8am-4pm
                    Sat/Sun Closed

College Closed 12/23 – 1/2
     **Full-Time employees report back to work on Tuesday 1/3**

Monday, October 17, 2011

New Employee Spotlight - Maggie Duran



Maggie Duran is the newest addition to the Triton TRiO Student Support Services team. She has been a student at Triton for two years. Within that time, she has been a part of the Latin American Student Organization and Program Board along with volunteering her time in the Student Life Office. Maggie is working on her Associates in Arts degree with a concentration in Community studies. She will then transfer to North Park University into their Non-Profit Management Program. Maggie was in the inaugural cohort of our TRiO program last year and is excited to bring those experiences as a Mentor in the program.

**Remember - if you would like to recognize a staff member within the Division of Academic Success please contact me.**

Are you a Follower???

Good Morning!

In an effort to encourage all Division of Academic Success to engage in this blog, I am hosting a raffle for all of my "followers".  Any staff member that signs up to follow this blog by October 24th at noon will be eligible to win a small token of my appreciation.  If this works, I may continue to randomly select winners each month.  Stay tuned!

Debbie

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

***IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT***

Please be advised that on

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17th


Triton College will be hosting a luncheon for our State Legislative Leaders on campus.  The luncheon will conclude with a tour between 12:15pm - 2:00pm of all areas within the Division of Academic Success.

PLEASE make sure that your areas are clean, and that you are representing yourself, your area and the Division in a manner that exceeds expectations.

Thank you for your cooperation and continued dedication to student success.

Debbie




Training Opportunity!

Please see the message below about this unique training opportunity- This message is from Bill Justice.


I will be conducting free incident command classes here at Triton.  The primary audience is the police department and river grove select command personnel.  This class is required for those individuals to function in there capacity, and to ensure they can continue to receive federal funds.

This class is also applicable and highly suggested for public school officials to have, that would be in any command or authority position during a crisis or emergency.  With my dealings and knowledge of how we as a school would respond to an emergency, below are the administrators and personnel, I would recommend or encourage to do this training.  These dates are for October only, I will try to set up 1-2 more classes in November.   If anyone wants to do the training but cannot make the dates please have them
contact me.  I can probably work something out, so they get the training.  Also please have all that are going to attend to let me know which dates they will be in attendance.

It is a 2 class program, 300 (expanding incident management) & 400 (advanced incident command and operation)

President
Vice Presidents
AVP (that would have any dealings with a crisis at minimum to include finance, marketing, and facilities) Dean's (that serve in the capacity of the evening administrator) 
Crisis team

10/12-300 class   9 am
10/19- 400 class   9 am
10/24- 300 class   9 am
10/27- 400 class   9 am

Class should last 3-5 hours, if an attendee needs to leave prior to the end   that is okay.

Bill

Monday, October 10, 2011

Mid-Terms Are Coming!

Good Afternoon!

I hope that you are enjoying the warmer weather and the beautiful sunshine that we are having!  I know that I am trying to get as much of it in as possible before the weather gets colder.  As we start moving toward mid-terms, there are several things that I want to make you aware of-

Dean's Office
The Completion Agenda, a national initiative to double the number of students completing degrees and certificates as community colleges by 2020, has come to Triton College.  Please join TCSA at The Completion Agenda Kick-Off event on October 26th from 1-3pm in the Student Center.

Want to know more about The Completion Agenda?  Join VP Olson at a webinar in the Student Center on October 26th from 3-4pm.  Check out the link below for details.
http://online2.triton.edu/docs/CompletionWebinar.pdf

Library
The Library is please to welcome our newest full-time faculty librarian, Larissa Garcia!  Larissa will be starting at Triton College on Monday, October 17th - please help us make her feel welcome.

Join us in celebrating the marriage of Mr. & Mrs. Craig Boddy (Laurie Schuetter).  Laurie, our newest part-time librarian was married over the weekend - Congratulations!

The Annual Library Book Sale is coming up - please help promote and prepare for this event.  More details can be found at the links below.
http://online2.triton.edu/docs/donatebooks2011.pdf

http://online2.triton.edu/docs/BookDonationsAnnualBookSale.pdf

ETRC
We would like to recognize the hard work of Angela Williams, Tiguidanke Bah, and Jean Thelemaque for their work within the ETRC.  These three employees have moved to the new Testing Center effective October 1st.  Good Luck & Thank You!!!

***************
Finally, please remember to be extra kind and supportive of our students these next few weeks.  Mid-terms are coming and the stress level is rising!  Let's do our best to make this time as worry-free as possible!

Have a wonderful week and don't forget to send me announcements, comments, or inclusions for this blog.  I am also happy to highlight employees that you feel deserve special recognition.

Debbie

Friday, September 30, 2011

Some Quick Announcements

Good Morning!

It is really starting to feel like fall!  Just some quick announcements to end the week-

Larissa Garcia has been confirmed by the Board of Trustees as the new full-time Faculty Librarian.  Larissa brings a wealth of experience to our Division and will be starting at Triton on Monday, October 17th.

Triton College has selected the vendor for the new ERP system, Datatel.  Thank you to those who attended various demonstrations and providing feedback regarding the selection.  Now the hard work begins!  It is important to remember that bringing a new ERP on campus is a change for everyone, please be cooperative, constructive and supportive in your feedback as we move through the implementation phase.  It can take anywhere from 18moths to 3years before the system is integrated across campus. This is a journey, not a race and we need the entire team at Triton College to make this successful!

Speaking of races, did you know that Triton College is sponsoring a volunteer team at the Chicago Marathon?  If you are interested in volunteering cut and paste the link below in your browser for more information.

http://online2.triton.edu/docs/marathon.pdf

Don't Forget!  Tomorrow the College is hosting the annual Fall Family Fun Fest!  Please join us in the Botanical Gardens from 10am-2pm for a variety of fall activities including a corn maze, pumpkin patch and so much more!!!

I wish you a restful weekend!

Debbie

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Checking-In from Washington D.C.

Good Morning!

It is a beautiful day here in Washington D.C.! Although the clouds are covering the sun, the conference that I am at is providing me with a refreshed, new perspective on student success even in a time that money is tight. I am excited to share with each areas some of the ideas that have surfaced during this conference and bring back tools to strengthen our service to the students and the Triton College community.

Please remember the following events that are coming up-

Fall Family Fun Fest- October 1st 10am-2pm
Join Triton College in celebrating the fall season! Bring your family to enjoy a corn maze, pumpkin patch, arts & crafts and so much more. Hope to see you there!

Mid-Term Exams/Projects-
The Mid-Term is quickly approaching. Please be mindful of the stress that this time of year creates for our students. Let's do what we can to ease their stress by going the extra mile to provide outstanding service.

October 11th - Faculty Holiday
Just a reminder that no classes will be held on Tuesday, October 11th due to the faculty holiday. Since this occurs during the mid-term we will be open regular hours. Please let me know if you have any questions.

REMINDERS

Please work with your supervisor to update your contact information on your departmental emergency phone tree. We are quickly moving toward the winter season which can be very unpredictable. It is important that we have accurate contact information for you just in case.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Special Congratulations to Cynthia Romanowski for her selection and participation in the President's Leadership Academy. The Division has successfully sent several members to the President's Leadership Academy in the past including Lucy Smith, Elvis Ortega and Dubravka Juraga. I am also a past leadership participant. If you are interest in this unique opportunity please let me know so that I can forward your information to the President's Office for consideration.


As always, I appreciate the work that you do on a daily basis to support student success and the mission and vision of Triton College. Keep up the good work and have a great week!

Debbie

Monday, September 19, 2011

Week of September 19th

Good Afternoon!

I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who attended ERP sessions last week. As you are aware, Triton College is in the initial stages of identifying a vendor for this campus-wide system. I will keep you updated regarding the status of this process.

The Division of Academic Success is really moving and shaking this semester. Here are some great things that are occurring-

ETRC - The ETRC is working with Enrollment Services to begin the transition of proctoring services to the new testing center. It is anticipated that Angela Williams and two part-time staff will be transitioning effective October 1st. Many wishes to these staff members for an easy transition and luck in their new positions. I am deeply appreciative for all of your efforts in the ETRC over the years!

SSS - TRIO Student Support Services has completed the first grant year as of August 31st. BriAnne is doing and amazing job in her transition and I am grateful to Blanca Gutierrez and Noel Reynoso for their support during the search for a new Director.

Orientations for new SSS students are being held this week, please contact the SSS Offices with any questions.

ASC - THe Academic Success Center is still piloting the Smarthinking online tutoring tool. Please refer students to this tool if they are having difficulty securing appointment times in person. Students can access this tool through the student portal.

Library - We are anticipating that a candidate for the full-time faculty position will be presented to the Board of Trustees meeting in September. I will keep you posted once a candidate is approved.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
**Please feel free to attend the Board of Trustee meeting on Tuesday, September 27th.

Did you know that HIA is now open for seated dining AND bistro service? If you haven't been to the dining room and/or the bistro you are missing out on some GREAT eats! Check it out this semester!

Triton College is sponsoring a group to volunteer at the 2011 Chicago Marathon on October 9th. If you are interested in volunteer (not running) at the marathon please review the Triton Today announcements sent out through the Vice President of Student Affairs Office.

Fall Family Fun Fest - On October 1st, 2011 from 10am-2pm the College is hosting a family-focused event in the botanical gardens that includes a corn maze, arts/crafts, food, and a pumkin patch. This is a great event and a lot of fun for families and kids.

Did you know that the Triton College Men Soccer team is ranked in the top five teams in the nation? Support our Trojans and catch a game soon!

Have a great week and enjoy this amazing fall weather!

Debbie

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Fall is in the Air!

Good Afternoon!

I hope that all of you had a restful Labor Day weekend and enjoyed the great weather!  For me the Labor Day weekend signals the end of summer and the start of the fall.  Fall is absolutely my favorite time of year as it signifies the start of many great things including football season (Go Bears!), changing of the leaves, bringing out the sweatshirts on cool evenings, and the new staff to the Division of Academic Success.

Please join me in welcoming BriAnne Nichols as the new Director, Student Support Services.  BriAnne has been working with the program on a limited basis as the Student Success Strategist from Enrollment Services.  She brings a wealth of information to the program and we are happy to have her join our team on a full-time basis.  BriAnne's office is in A106, ext. 3484 and her e-mail is bnichols@triton.edu.

**SPECIAL THANK YOU!!**

I would like to thank the Library faculty and staff for accommodating the Triton College K-8 Partnership meeting in the Silent Study Room this past Tuesday.  Hosting this event in the Library was a great way to showcase our beautiful facilities and our committed staff.  Special thank you to the ETRC staff for welcoming this group during their tour of our facilities.

***REMINDERS***

Just a couple of quick reminders regarding up coming events -

Please join the Triton College community in celebrating the annual Corn Roast which will be held on Wednesday 9/14 in the mounds.

The College will also be hosting the Fall Family Fun Fest on Saturday, October 1st from 10am-2pm.  Come to the botanical gardens and celebrate the changing weather with a variety of activities and goodies!  The Division of Academic Success will be hosting a book making activity at this event - visit our table or let me know if you would like to volunteer your time!

As you may be aware, the College has started the process of implementing a new ERP system on campus to replace RALPH.  This process is in the VERY beginning stages and will take years to complete.  However, all staff should be aware that this project is underway.  On September 14th-16th various vendors will be on campus to demonstrate their products and answer questions regarding our needs for a new system.  More information on the project and the ERP teams that have been created to support the project can be found at the Triton intranet pages (trojans).


**DID YOU KNOW?**

Triton College has a Greening the Campus Committee?  This committee meets the second Monday of each month at 1pm in the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) Rm. E210.  Please feel free to join the committee if you are interested in participating.

Vice President Doug Olson recently defended his doctoral dissertation?  Dr. Olson completed his Ed.D. at Northern Illinois University.  If you get a chance please congratulate Dr. Doug Olson on this amazing accomplishment!

Triton College requires all incoming students to take the Placement Exam prior to enrollment?  For more information please contact Dr. Amanda Turner in Enrollment Services.

Triton College is hosting the One Book One Triton event which will focus on the book entitled The Last Lecture.  For more information please contact English faculty member Dr. Renee Wright.


**CUSTOMER SERVICE**

Please remember to wear your staff ID badges at all times while "on the clock".  If you still need an employee ID please visit HR as soon as possible.

Remember kindness, smiles, empathy and understanding go a long way in defusing situations with upset students/faculty/staff/etc.  Triton College employees, especially those within the Division of Academic Success should strive for high quality, high energy, friendly customer service at all times.


**FINAL NOTES**

As we begin to embrace the many changes that the fall season brings, I cannot help but start planning for winter.  Please make sure that you have all of your contact information updated with your supervisor and on your department calling tree.  The weather in the Chicago area is like our beloved Chicago Bears - you hope for the best, but prepare for the worst (remember I am a life-long, die-hard fan).

Finally, I would like to thank all of you for the hard work that you do on a regular basis to support the Triton College community.  I am proud of the employees within the Division of Academic Success and am confident that the role you play in the lives of our students truly impacts their success.  THANK YOU!!!

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

***SECURITY ALERT***

I am disappointed to have to report the theft of two desktop computers in the ETRC this afternoon.  While we all would like to trust in the integrity of our campus community, we need to make sure and take appropriate steps to safe guard our areas.

PLEASE make sure that you are closing and locking all non-essential entry ways to offices, labs, etc.  These doors generally lock from the outside which allows access in emergency situations, prevents regular entry.  Effective immediately, all ASC and SSS staff are are asked to use MAIN ENTRANCES only to access work spaces.  Staff are not to use hallway facing doors to exit or enter interior offices.  

PLEASE make sure and close any door that you do not feel should be open.  I would rather have a person locked out of their office than have more items stolen.

PLEASE do not prop open ANY doors.  If they are set to lock automatically there is a reason for this.

PLEASE do not leave personal items unattended or out in plain sight.  The College cannot protect your items from theft.

If you have any information regarding today's theft please call me immediately so that we can provide more detailed information to campus police.

I appreciate your cooperation in being more diligent with security in all areas - thank you!!!

Debbie

Monday, August 29, 2011

Last Week of August!

Good Morning!

Just a few quick reminders to start the week-

Please work with your supervisor to attend the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 memorial event occurring on Tuesday, September 6, 2011 at the circle drive flag poles.  We cannot shut offices, but are encouraged to have as many staff present at the event as possible.

Remember to wear your staff ID badges at all times.  I will be asking if I do not see you wearing yours.  Thank you for your cooperation with this - it is a step to support student success!

College Council meets today at 2pm in the Board room - all are welcome to attend. 

Please make sure and check the President's Corner on the Triton intranet (trojans.com) everyday for news, announcements, and upcoming events.

Thanks and have a great day!

Debbie

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Back to School - Fall 2011

Good Morning!

I am so excited for the start of the Fall Semester 2011.  Having the students back on campus creates an amazing energy!  Can you feel it?  As we start the new academic year I wanted to give you some updates on projects we are working on and upcoming events that I would appreciate your support with.  Also, with the new school year, I have been inspired to start this Blog as a way of communicating information to all staff - please bear with me as I am a new blogger.

Academic Success Center
The ASC has a new coordinator, Daisy Dujua.  She will be working mostly evening hours and has extensive experience working in the Math Zone.  Daisy is also an Adjunct Faculty member here on campus.  Please welcome Daisy and send your congratulations on her new position.

i-Pad 2 is coming to the Academic Success Center!!!  I am a HUGE believer in giving students access to the most cutting-edge, current technology available and am pleased that we were able to secure funding for this initiative.  There will be 25 units available to students for use in the ASC to support learning needs.  Applications will be loaded to reflect the subject areas of Math, Science, and Writing.  I anticipate full roll-out Oct. 1st.

Library
The Library has a new Part-Time Librarian!  Please join me in welcoming Laurie Schuetter to Triton and to the Library.  Laurie has truly hit the ground running and brings great enthusiasm to the position.

Please join me in a final congratulations to Cynthia LaGon on her retirement from her Faculty Librarian position.  The vacancy created by Cynthia's retirement will hopefully be filled this fall.  We are currently reviewing potential candidates for this position.  I will notify you when a candidate has been selected.

ETRC
The ETRC will be making some minor changes to accommodate the newly established Testing Center located in A122 C&D.  Although staffing adjustments have not yet been finalized, the ETRC will be shifting at least three staff member to work in the new Center.  This is a GREAT thing for our students.  The new Center will be able to accommodate more students and create an environment that upholds the highest integrity for the testing process.  Please stop by rooms A122 C&D and see what a beautiful job out facilities department has done with this space.

The College has moved to a new version of BlackBoard for our online courses.  Please support our students in this transition and refer them to the ETRC with any questions regarding site navigation.

Student Support Services
The SSS TRIO program is in the process of filling the Director position which was vacated by Elivs Ortega.  I would like to wish Elvis much success in his new position at UIC.  In the absence of a Director, Blanca Gutierrez will be assuming the duties of the Director and I will be serving a more active role with the program.  It is anticipated that a new Director will be named in the next couple of weeks - STAY TUNED!

EVENTS
Please mark your calendars for the following events-

Tuesday, 9/6 - The College will be holding a memorial ceremony in recognition of the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy.  Programming will be held in the circle drive near the flag poles beginning at 1:30pm

Wednesday, 9/7 - The College will be honoring River Grove at an event that is open to the public in the Botanical Gardens from 5:30pm-7pm

Saturday, 10/1 - The College will be hosting a Fall Family Fun Fest from 10am-2pm.  All areas will be participating, please talk with your supervisor regarding ways in which you can support this effort.

Other campus events can be found at http://www.triton.edu/cgi-bin/r.cgi/happenings_banners.html

Please let me know if you have any suggestions or announcements that you would like to share on this blog.  Have a great semester and remember to wear your staff ID tags!

Thanks!!!

Debbie